Obituary of Rose Mary Whitenton

Our dear mom, Rose Mary Whitenton, passed peacefully on May 8, 2024 in her home, with prayers and peaceful music and songs; with family by her side.

Rose Mary was born in Strafford, Missouri May 26, 1933 to Peter Michael Murphy and Edna Mae Murphy. The family moved to Stockton, California when Rose Mary was 8 years old. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic school from second grade through high school. Rose Mary met our father William (Bill) Leavy at St. Mary’s and married in 1951.

Together they had three children and enjoyed a life camping, hiking and enjoying Nevada’s scenery before moving to Plumas County, California. Our mother Rose Mary was a busy homemaker and loving mother, she gave us self-confidence and a love for nature and pets.

Mom started as a nurse’s aide in Quincy, California and went back to school in later years, graduating from nursing school earning her Bachelor’s degree as a registered nurse. Rose Mary loved caring for others with patience and kindness.

Rose Mary and her second husband, Bill Whitenton, left Stockton and moved to Washington State, where they had a beautiful home in Kalama, Washington. She continued her nursing for a few more years before the passing of her husband Bill. She then moved to Oroville, California to be closer to family.

Rose Mary is survived by her daughters Gail Edmundson (Rodger), Laura Thompson (Brian), six grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. She is predeceased by her son Michael Leavy, spouse Bill Leavy and spouse Bill Whitenton.

Rose Mary had many hobbies including anything outdoors. She loved gardening and hiking with her hiking club, many times in foreign countries. She was a Girl Scout leader for several years in Kalama, Washington; she joined the General Federated Women’s Club and Amalak, both non-profit organizations supporting local needs through service to the public and donations.

Rose Mary enjoyed many travels around the world, always seeking new adventures and meeting others who also had the “wanderlust”. After moving to Oroville she continued her walks almost daily with her Dolly dog and us girls.

There will be no services in accordance with our mom’s wishes.

Arrangements entrusted to Ramsey Funeral Home 530-534-3877